Raquel Trevino
Wire Mug
Prompt: Using surrealistic or ready-made objects as inspiration, students will be asked to reexamine their previously made studied object (ceramic mug) and explore different materials (made & found) to represent and to recreate this object. This project will provoke the relationship between materiality and function. How can a change in material create a new function or change the perception of an object.
Remaking a mug using a variety of different materials made me question the definition of a mug: “a large cup, typically cylindrical with a handle and used without a saucer.” Although the mugs I made cannot technically be used to drink, it is cylindrical, it has a handle and is also used without a saucer. Consequently, I realised that although my mug does not work for its general-purpose, it is still a mug. Objects have essential value to us even if they do not function and serve their purpose. It was an exciting experience to disconnect an object from its everyday use. After having worked with the material, I found it most interesting how the wire somewhat controlled me. Nothing would stay in place unless bound with another wire. Therefore, I decided to have a wire cup that one could not drink from due to the significant gaps. Although I manipulated the material, I still wanted its natural movement. I hope to expand this series of wire cups.
